Bow & Spear Fishing Regulations

Michigan
Freshwater Fishing

The seasons, gear, waters, and species where a spear or bow and arrow or crossbow may be used are specified in the table below and lists which follow (except as otherwise prohibited). Spearing gear shall be limited to: hand-propelled spear, rubber-propelled spear, spring-propelled spear, bow and arrow, or crossbow. Artificial lights may be used. It shall be unlawful to use a rubber-propelled spear or a spring-propelled spear without being submerged and have the spear under control by means of an attached line not exceeding twenty feet in length. It is unlawful to spear any fish in a waterbody closed to fishing, except as noted in the spearing exceptions list. Unless noted otherwise, all general regulations apply for the species listed. Anglers should contact local enforcement offices for information concerning local weapons ordinances banning the use of bow and arrow or crossbow in some locations.

Maps have been developed to assist anglers in identifying inland trout waters and the regulations associated with each Type as indicated by color scheme and text. Maps are only available online at www.michigan.gov/fishingguide

It shall be unlawful to fish by any other means other than hook-and-line for muskellunge in the following waters: L. Erie, L. St. Clair, Detroit R., and St. Clair R.

Waters with Spearing and Gaff Hook Restrictions

It shall be unlawful to take or attempt to take any species of fish with spearing gear or gaff hook from Apr. 1 – Jun. 15 from the following waters of CHEBOYGAN County: Black R., Cheboygan R., and Indian R.

Waters Open To Yellow Perch Spearing

A hand-propelled spear or bow and arrow or crossbow may be used to harvest yellow perch from Jan. 1 – end of Feb. in L. St. Clair.